Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning integrated into them. A lot of apartments and condos that have air conditioning units are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide great views, but also too much sunshine and heat.
If your home has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. HVAC contractors Brick spoke to said that if the building does not have ductwork, a central air conditioning system might be the best option.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an affordable and simple way to cool your home without the need to install ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those with a tight budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have a few drawbacks that should be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are only capable of cooling one room, making them not a great option for homes with a large number of rooms. They also consume plenty of energy, which is why it’s essential to select models that have high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose an issue for security, since they are easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the dimensions of the unit as well as the type of window it’s set in, you may have to install accordions or wooden to block any space around the sides of the window. It is possible to install most window units yourself with the window installation set. Simply place the chassis inside the frame and secure the sleeves. For larger models with higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that secure it to the window.
To determine the size unit you require to purchase, simply multiply the square footage of your space by the number of BTUs it requires to be able to cool comfortably. Be aware of whether the room is located in an apartment building that is high-rise or receives a lot more sunlight. A larger unit will be more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. For a more long-term solution, our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC system. The initial cost might be higher but it will pay for itself in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are independent cooling systems that work like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, will be able to run out the window to vent heat and CO2 (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). They are portable and are determined by their cooling capacity (defined by BTU ratings). For the best results the unit should be designed to accommodate its intended room, as oversized units won’t offer adequate cooling and may wear down faster than necessary.
These units are usually used in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, where the primary method of cooling is central AC unit. By installing an AC unit that is portable in one or more of your rooms, you can reduce the load on your central system, and reduce the cost of electricity and money.
The most reliable portable units also come with a dehumidifier mode to reduce the amount of moisture that is a frequent reason for hot spots and can make a room feel uncomfortable warm. The units should be equipped with washable filters to ensure optimal performance, and remote controls to make operation more simple. Find ENERGY STAR-certified models that meet efficiency standards and save money and electricity when compared with non-certified units.
If you choose to go for a portable model, it’s important to choose a dual-hose model rather than one-hose options. Dual-hose models permit air from outside to be drawn into the condenser coils heated to a certain temperature and then blown out via the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound of the unit. This feature may cost more but the savings and comfort can be worth the extra cost.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They are comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, and thin piping running through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be placed in spaces where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. They are the ideal cooling solution for many Southwest Florida homes, condos and apartments because homeowners do not want to cut into floors and walls to install ductwork.
In a ductless system, air is chilled by the indoor unit by passing through refrigerant-filled tubing coming from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than other models, so you can cool your room without causing disturbance to others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating which means you can enjoy all-year-round luxury.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces including garages, sunrooms and bedrooms. They can also increase comfort for older houses, apartments and condos without ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing, as it is able to easily adapt to various needs and patterns of occupancy.
A ductless system is also more energy efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t need to force air over long distances. It can also lower your electricity costs. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems which means they can save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems offer superior cooling efficiency, and can be tailored to your own temperature preferences. They can improve the air quality in your condo, as well, with an efficient filtering system that removes harmful particles from the air. This can help you avoid allergies and asthma while ensuring your condo’s comfort throughout the season. If you are ready to learn more about installing a ductless system in your apartment, contact us today! Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the most appropriate air conditioner for your situation by assessing your requirements.